/ MFB / Madaline Knight
“My greatest reward has been watching the kids in my club build confidence within themselves. Being a role model for them is the greatest accomplishment of my life. I love watching the kids build friendships with each other because the friends I have made in 4-H are now family to me. 4-H builds such a community of love and support.”
Madaline Knight has been a Muskegon County 4-H volunteer for the Hop-A-Doodle Doo 4-H Club since 2017. She served as president of the Muskegon 4-H Leaders Council in 2020 and 2021, bringing with her fresh ideas and a passionate attitude. Despite the COVID-19 restrictions in place during 2020 and some of 2021, Knight held monthly online club meetings and tried her best to keep club members engaged.
Under her leadership, the county council created two learning kits to keep Muskegon 4-H members involved in 4-H during the pandemic. In addition, Knight’s club members planned and hosted a countywide rabbit clinic each year and helped with other showmanship clinics for Muskegon 4-H members. Knight is well-known throughout the county as an expert in the rabbit project and for her willingness to help all 4-H members learn and grow as rabbit exhibitors. She also encourages kids to become Muskegon 4-H Ambassadors and to learn about everything 4-H has to offer.
Through 4-H, I have become the person I am today. Not only has it made me who I am, but has given me lifelong friendships and leaders to look up to. 4-H and everyone I have met through 4-H has fostered my passion for animals and led me to the path I am considering for my future.
— Bridget Paidl, Menominee County
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he Michigan Farm Bureau 4-H Excellence in Agriculture Award recognizes 4-H volunteers who exhibit excellence in 4-H youth education and leadership in agriculture-related areas. 2024 4-H Salute to Excellence Award winners pictured include Robert Richards (left) and Jennifer Specht (right). Click on the button below to view all of the 2024 4-H Legacy Award winners!